Fred Arthur Jordan passed away peacefully at the age of 86 on July 1, 2024, at Thompson Hospital in Canandaigua, NY, after several weeks of care with his family by his side. Born on April 10, 1938, in Buffalo, NY, he was the cherished son of Fred and Emily Jordan. Raised in Cortland, NY, Fred was recognized as the most gifted and artistic member of his family, a trait that flourished throughout his life.
Fred proudly served in the Army from 1960 to 1962, where he honed his discipline and dedication—qualities that greatly benefitted his professional and personal endeavors. After his military service, he embarked on a distinguished career as a rare bookbinder. Renowned in the rare book and library community, Fred dedicated his life to restoring thousands of notable books, breathing new life into each page and cover. His meticulous work not only preserved literary history but also inspired a generation of students across Europe and the United States, whom he mentored passionately in the art of bookbinding.
Beyond his professional life, Fred was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fly fishing and hunting. His love for the outdoors was paralleled by his commitment to restoring his 200-year-old house into a stunning showpiece, a testament to his skill and patience. Fred’s sense of humor, love for travel, and the memories of every national park he visited enriched the lives of his friends and family.
Fred is survived by his loving wife Eleanor; children, Fred Jordan (Traci), Jennifer (Mark), and Julie (Jerry Fedele); and Todd (Sharon), a special friend and colleague. He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Emily Jordan.
The family would like to thank the staff at F.F. Thompson Continuing Care Center Post Hospital Services Unit for their dedication during our stay. Your unconditional love and compassion were a godsend to us. We can never thank you enough for all you have done.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, at 10 a.m. at the United Church of Christ, located at 8758 Main St., Honeoye, NY 14471. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the United Church of Christ at the same address.
Fred’s life and legacy will be remembered fondly by all who knew him, as a man who cherished his craft, his family, and the natural world around him. To share a memory or condolence, please visit: www.doughertyfuneralhomes.com
My condolences to Ellie and their family. It was always a pleasure to visit with Fred and Ellie. His talents and interests were amazing, not to mention his achievements. He was always willing to help others and will be solely missed by all who were fortunate to know him. Blessings and comfort to the family.
Vivian Vanderzell
Fred will truly be missed. He took such pride in his craft and beamed when he gave the Wayside Seekers a tour of his book binding studio. I always enjoyed his sense of humor. He was a rare bird! Rest in peace, Fred!
Fred and Traci – Bob and I are very sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. It sounds like your dad led a wonderful and meaningful life. He has left this world with a great legacy, and with much love. Condolences to you and your entire family. God bless.
Peggy and Bob Hunt
The Veterans Outreach Center extends our deepest sympathy in Fred’s passing.We acknowledge and are truly grateful for his service to our country.
We are very fortunate to have known Fred. He always had a smile for us & a warm hug for me . He will be missed by so many. Our thoughts go out to his family.
Ele and family, I am so saddened to hear of Fred’s passing. Fred always made me smile and brightened my day. He was truly a wonderful, caring man. I have so many fond memories of our chats at the Greenery. Thank you for sharing him with everyone.
Extremely sorry to learn of Fred’s passing. I always enjoyed his wit, sense of humor, and values. My deepest condolences and prayers to the entire Jordan family during this difficult time.
We met the Jordans on the occasion of our daughter Traci’s marriage to their son. What a delightful gentleman he was! His passion for the craft of bookbinding made for interesting conversation, and we were impressed with the stories of the restoration that he and Ellie undertook with their homestead. His role as Traci’s ‘other Dad’ was a welcome addition to our family and we send condolences to his wife, son and daughters on his passing.
Lynda and Jerry Platt